After ChatGPT-4o was launched by OpenAI on March 14, 2023, it spread like a whirlwind, becoming the top story on social media and a major topic of discussion.
This release is part of the ongoing development of the GPT series, featuring improvements in performance, understanding, and the ability to generate human-like text. The launch captivated the audience, particularly due to its advanced human-like capabilities.
Jensen Huang, the founder of NVIDIA—a technology company renowned for designing and manufacturing GPUs and SoCs for various markets including gaming, professional visualization, data centres, and automotive—emerged as a prominent figure in the AI industry once ChatGPT-4o was launched.
Experts and YouTubers then began discussing the impacts and potential threats of this rapidly evolving technology.
It is undeniable that AI's influence is pervasive. The key is how humans can utilize and optimize AI's strengths to enhance overall well-being.
Let's see a brief comparison of ChatGPT-4 to its previous versions highlights its strengths:
Improved Language Understanding:
- A deeper understanding of context and nuances in language, enabling more accurate and relevant responses.
Larger Training Data:
- Trained on a more extensive dataset, including diverse sources, which enhances its knowledge base.
Enhanced Multimodal Capabilities:
- Able to understand and generate not just text but also work with other forms of input, such as images (depending on specific configurations).
Since the inception of ChatGPT in 2022, there has been significant improvement. Its human-like responses and emotional intelligence have captivated audiences, posing a potential threat to certain professions.
AI’s advancements in contextual awareness, reliability, and a broader knowledge base directly affect routine and repetitive tasks in sectors like data analysis, manufacturing, transportation, and retail. However, domains requiring creativity, empathetic care, mentorship, complex problem-solving, and strategic leadership remain less impacted.
Despite the perceived threat, AI advancements complement rather than replace roles in STEM fields and other professions. Programmers, data analysists, doctors, dentists, teachers, and many other professionals should see their roles evolve rather than disappear. They should focus on complex, value-added activities, letting AI handle routine tasks.
Nevertheless, AI misuse can result in biased or unethical decisions, potentially causing harm. AI-generated ideas may also lack human insight and authenticity.
If applied wisely and intelligently to enhance and innovate problem-solving, AI presents great opportunities.
As it has been said by Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities, "It was the best of times and it was the worst of times", every era brings its own changes, evolution will occur now and then. Thus, we must equip and adapt ourselves to ever ready navigate these changes positively.
To make the best use of AI for a better world, global leaders must work together responsibly and ethically to diminish threats and anxiety while fostering a more efficient, innovative, and equitable world.
Ee Fui Mei
